5 Epic Places You Can See without Leaving Your Car

By Angelica Kajiwara
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Editor’s note: We’re making every effort to provide you with the most up-to-date information. However, there are widespread closures to help flatten the curve and slow the spread of Covid-19. We’re doing our best to keep all of our stories and calendar up to date. Stay safe, and stay home! 

With schools and businesses closed, it is that much harder to get out of the house with little ones. Even if your crew has to stay in their seat belts, they can still see some cool places in the DMV. Don’t miss these epic views from the comfort of the car seat.

photo: Dion Hinchcliffe via Flickr

Leesburg Animal Park

Head out for a drive-thru zoo experience. Meet the animals from the comfort of your car. Wave at a camel, chat with a zebra and park by a sloth. For now, this brand new drive-thru only experience is open on weekends. Grab your tickets online prior to visiting. Bonus: each ticket purchase comes with a ticket for a future, in-person visit. 

Online: leesburganimalpark.com

photo: via Virginia Safari Park

Virginia Safari Park

A 180-acre drive-thru adventure for the whole family. The walk-about area is closed, but there are still tons of furry friends to see. The animals are free to roam and ready to enjoy the park's specialty grain from the palm of your little one's hand. Enjoy the park at a discount during this time of social distancing.

Online: virginiasafaripark.com

photo: Soomness via Flickr

The Monuments at Night

Longer days mean a later bedtime once in a while. Why not stay up one night and check out the moonlit glow of the monuments at night? The Jefferson Memorial street view is beautiful. And, the Washington Monument is a unique sight with spotlights shining strong. Wave goodnight to Lincoln as you head home for the evening.

Online: nps.gov

 

photo: m01229 via Flickr

Harpers Ferry History

A visit to Harpers Ferry National Historic Park usually calls for the use of the shuttle, but with the current homebody movement, traffic won't be an issue. The historic town is picturesque with sweeping views of the Potomac River and a few distant train whistles. Download the NPS Harpers Ferry app and learn tons about this intriguing park.

Insider tip: pick up dinner at near-by Patowmack Farms on your way home. 

Online: nps.gov

photo: Mr.TinDC via Flickr

Sugarloaf Mountain

Usually, a great hiking spot, this privately owned mountain is just as beautiful from a car window. Drive up to the East Overlook to take in the gorgeous views surrounding the area. The winding road leading to the West Overlook makes for a fun ride for all, and Strong Mansion at the bottom of the hill is the perfect stop for a car selfie.

Editor's note: Due to COVID-19, walking & hiking trails are currently closed. 

Online: sugarloafmd.com

—Angelica Kajwara

featured photo: Gerhard Crous via Unsplash

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